Name:
Levers
Simple Machines
Levers are used to help lift heavy objects
Lever: a simple machine that is used to change the direction of force needed to move an
object over a fulcrum (pivot point)
 The different kinds of levers depend on where the fulcrum is located
 They work by using a strong beam that pivots at a point called the fulcrum
 The beam spreads the weight of the object across a longer distance
 The fulcrum is where the beam pivots, creating leverage, making it easier to lift objects on
other side
Draw a diagram of a lever: label the beam and fulcrum
Name 3 levers you might see in everyday life:
1.______________________
2.______________________
3.______________________
 Levers are used when objects are too heavy to pick up by hand
 Using a lever allows you to change the direction you apply force to move an object over a
pivot point
 Instead of trying to lift an object from the side, a lever will allow you to lift it across a beam
 This allows you to lift the object up with more strength because you can get all of your
weight behind it!
 The longer the beam, the greater the mechanical advantage!
Types of Levers
 First Class Lever: the fulcrum is located in between the effort and load
 Second Class Lever: the load is located in between the effort and fulcrum
 Third Class Lever: the effort is located in between the fulcrum and load
Draw diagrams of the 3 classes of levers: label the fulcrum, load, and effort
Build your own levers!
Draw diagrams of all the different types of levers you and your group can create with the lever
kits:
 Label all the parts with the correct vocabulary!
 See how much weight each can lift!
 What functions could they serve?